COVER STORY
“Papken” from page 1
Jondi Gumz
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Papken was born Dec. 16, 1938 in Antioch, Turkey, and immigrated to Boston, Massachusetts at age 17 to pursue his studies at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where he earned a degree in mechanical engineering.
His intelligence and ambition led him to a lifelong career in technology, where he made significant contributions as a pillar of the industry. As president of manufacturer Silicon Valley Group in San Jose, he invented a next-generation machine that was used for years to layer all of the critical layers of Intel’s chips for computers. Once Intel announced
it would buy his machine, Der Torossian recalled in a 2018 Stanford University interview, his stock price more than doubled.
Japanese rivals wanted to buy his technology but he was reluctant, opting for a joint venture instead.
“I want to engineer things,” he told the Stanford University interviewer. “I want to make things in America.”
While at MIT, Papken met and captured the heart of his beloved Claire. The two eloped to California, where they built a life together filled with love, passion, and a deep commitment to family and friends. Their 53 years together were marked by a shared love for art, music, and community.
While raising his family, Papken graduated with a master’s in mechanical engineering from Stanford University.
Papken had a remarkable career at Hewlett-Packard, Plantronics, and Silicon Valley Group, which is a testament to his ingenuity and visionary leadership. His work, notably in advancing step and scan lithography technology, has had a profound impact on modern technology, making today’s microchips possible.
In recognition of his exceptional contributions, he
was honored with the Ellis Island Medal of Honor in 1995. He was a on many corporate and community boards including several years at Atmel Corp.
With his wife Claire, he created the nonprofit Bay Shore Lyric Opera Co., which presented shows and brought rave reviews for their daughter Jennifer, a lyric soprano. They bought the Capitola Theatre and staged 29 major operas, attracting 65,000 attendees. They enjoyed their townhouse in seaside Capitola.
After Claire’s passing in 2013, Papken continued to honor their shared legacy with the same enthusiasm and dedication. He was a longtime member of the St. Joseph Commandry of the Knights of St. John. Papken’s family was the center of his world. He is survived by his four children: A. Greg Der Torossian (Ashley), Tina Der Torossian, Jill Fries (Alex), and Jennifer Der Torossian. n
Teri Huckobey, Brooke Valentine, Danielle Paul
Race Michael Oppenheimer, Camisa Composti
Open Studios
Three
weekends: 300+ artists
Arts Council Santa Cruz County presents the 39th annual Open Studios Art Tour, a free self-guided event featuring 300+ artists, opening their creative spaces to the public for the 39th year.
More than 40 first-time artists are participating, and more than 100 studios offer artist demonstrations.
Attendees have the opportunity to buy the art they like on the spot.
“The arts are the heart and soul of our community,” said Jim Brown, executive director of Arts Council Santa Cruz County. “The level of community engagement at the annual Open Studios Art Tour speaks to the importance of creativity in our culture and demonstrates how the arts significantly contribute to our local economy, driving cultural tourism and fostering social enrichment.”
This is the swan song for Ann Ostermann, who has been at the helm for 20 years and is handing the reins over to Bree Karpavage, a collage artist in the Santa Cruz Mountains who directs First Friday Santa Cruz Art Tour.
Ostermann said, “There’s just nothing better than meeting an artist in person and seeing where they make their art!”
Dates and locations:
• Oct. 5-6: North County artists — from the yacht harbor north
• Oct. 12-13: South County artists — from the yacht harbor south
• Oct. 19-20: All County — featuring 250+ artists across the county
Hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Open Studios Art Tour is a program of Arts Council Santa Cruz County, which awards grants to artists and arts organizations, offers arts education programs serving more than 18,000 youth, and community initiatives such as Open Studios, the Tannery Arts Center in Santa Cruz, and the Watsonville Center for the Arts.
Learn more at artscouncilsc.org
••• Highlights
• Tannery Arts Center: More than seven artists, 1050 River St., Santa Cruz.
• Cover Artist: Peter Vizzusi, an established artist providing glass blowing demonstrations, 422 Cliff Drive, Aptos
By Scotts Valley artist Sharon Medler
• Artist Highlights: Rigel Hunter, a metal fabricator, 2131 B, Delaware Ave, Sant Cruz, Ercilia Medeiros, watercolors and acylic, 6996 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz, Dan and Laurie Hennig, pottery, 211 E. Grove., Boulder Creek.
• Website: santacruzopenstudios.com/ Browse all the participating artists on the A-Z pages. Click links to learn more.
• Artist Guide: Pick up a free printed guide at Good Times drop-off points. Follow the keys for studios that are wheelchair accessible, offer demonstrations or are Spanish speaking.
• App: Download the free app on iTunes & Google Play.
• Social Media: Facebook and Instagram
• Green Signs: Follow the green signs to find artist studios.
• Preview Exhibits: Through Oct. 20, two galleries will host a sampling of art works. Santa Cruz Art League, 526 Broadway, Santa Cruz, and Pajaro Valley Arts Porter Building, 280 Main St., Watsonville Pop into the gallery, find artwork that intrigues you, and note which studios you want to visit.
All work at the previews is for sale. n •••
Visiting from out of town? For hotel accommodations, dining options, check out https:// www.santacruz.org/
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Falcon Club Hall of Fame: Oct. 18
Scotts Valley High School Falcon Club will induct 10 new members into the Hall of Fame at 6 p.m. Friday, Oct 18, at the Back Nine Grill, 555 Hwy 17, Santa Cruz. Honorees are: Coaches
Reggie Stephens — Football, basketball and softball
Gretchen Schmitt — Cross country and track
Rick Silver — Girls basketball and football Athletes
Grace Giguiere — Basketball, softball and tennis
Dom Parrish — Wrestling
Jack Pasquini — Basketball and football
Vanessa Fraser — Cross country and track
program and forged a team at the high school level that was a force to contend with for multiple years. During his 16 years at SVHS, the team was solely or part of 7 SCCAL league titles, and made 10 CCS appearances and 3 Nor-Cals. He was the coach and mentor of 7 SCCAL MVP’s. ~~~
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Jessica Kain — Cross country and track
Shane Carle — Baseball
Negine Mansour Sewitsky — Soccer
This will be the fifth group inducted into the Hall of Fame, resuming the tradition after the Covid-19 pandemic as Scotts Valley High School marks its 25th year.
2024 Inductees
Reggie Stephens is a long-time trainer, coach, and mentor for both high school and college level athletes.
Reggie attended high school in Santa Cruz where he was a threesport, All-County athlete, excelling in football. He went on to play at Cabrillo College, then Rutgers University, and ultimately was signed by the New York Giants where he played for 5 years, including the 2000 Super Bowl.
He returned to Santa Cruz in 2010 when he started training and coaching boys and girls in basketball, softball, and football. He formed a nonprofit, the Reggie Stephens Foundation, whose motto is “Seek Believe Achieve!” to help the youth of SC County and beyond realize that hard work and a positive attitude can get you far in life.
He has dedicated countless hours, free of charge, to support and educate the youth of Santa Cruz County.
SVHS is fortunate to count him one of our own. ~~~
Rick Silver coached within the Scotts Valley School District for 22 years, coaching girls basketball at both the middle and high school levels.
His consistent and encouraging coaching style provided the continuity to develop athletes through all levels of the
Gretchen Schmitt did double duty at SVHS, coaching both cross country in the fall and track in the spring. She began in 2014 coaching the high jump, but by the 2017 season she was head coach and distance coach for the team. She focused on the complete individual, not only coaching on running technique but also on training schedules, their high school experience, and on to college and life goals.
During her tenure, the cross country team consistently was SCCAL champion, was 2nd in CCS in 2018 and 2019, and qualified for State in those years also. Several individual runners also qualified for State competition, and numerous athletes qualified every year for CCS track events.
She laid the foundation for the cross country and track powerhouse that SVHS is today.
Shane Carle is a 2010 graduate of SVHS who excelled on the baseball field.
By his sophomore year he was playing varsity, starting pitcher and 3rd base. In his senior year he led the team to the SCCAL championship and the CCS playoffs. He was Player of the Year for SCCAL in 2010. He went on to play ball at Cabrillo College, and won a full ride scholarship to CSU Long Beach.
In 2013 he was drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the 10th round. During an 8-year career in MLB, he pitched for several major and minor league teams, including the Colorado Rockies and the Atlanta Braves.
~~~
Jessica Kain is a 2019 graduate of SVHS where she was a 4-year varsity runner on the cross country and track teams.
She was a recognized leader, elected captain of both teams her senior year. The 1600-meter was her event: she was SCCAL champion, placed 2nd at CCS, and qualified to compete at the State level in that event.
Reggie Stephens
Rick Silver
Gretchen Schmitt
Shane Carle
Jessica Kain
COMMUNITY NEWS
Post high school, Jessica ran for San Diego State where she was consistently a top finisher for the Aztecs and earned All Mountain West honors in the 1500M and the mile. She was the anchor for the distance medley team that set a school record.
She will be pursuing a professional running career.
Dominique Parrish is a 2015 graduate of SVHS where she launched a wrestling career that quickly moved beyond the boundaries of the local community.
In 2014 and 2015 she was the State champion in her weight class. In 2014 and 2015 she was also the Folkstyle Junior National Champion, and in 2015 she was third in the UWW Junior Nationals.
By 2016 she was 4th in the University Nationals and was competing and winning at international tournaments. She is a 3-time U23 World Team member, and won the gold medal in 2022 World Wrestling Championships in Belgrade, Serbia.
She qualified and competed for Team USA at the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics.
Vanessa Fraser is a 2013 graduate of SVHS where she participated in varsity level cross country and track all four years.
She made First Team SCCAL cross country all four of her high school years and spearheaded the team that qualified to compete at the State level for the first time, becoming the State Div 4 champions in 2011 and 2012, as well as SCCAL and CCS champions in 2012. Switching to track in the spring, she was a 3-time state qualifier.
She led both cross country and track as the team captain in 2012-13.
After graduation Vanessa attended Stanford where she was a walk-on for cross country and track.
She became Stanford’s No. 1 runner at the 2015 NCAA Cross Country Championships and has all-American honors in cross country and indoor and outdoor track. Through her dedication and hard work, she moved into the top 5 All-time list at Stanford in the 1,500, 5,000, and 10,000.
After graduating from Stanford with a degree in management science and engineering, she signed to run professionally with Bowerman Track Club from 2018-2022.
She is now training with Team Boss, in Boulder, Colo., and has signed a deal with Saucony. Whenever she is in the area, she still reaches out to SVHS teams: she comes to practices, gives talks, and encourages athletes both in person and via calls and texts.
“Hall of Fame” page 9
Dominique Parrish
Vanessa Fraser
SVHS Homecoming Oct. 19 with a Parade COMMUNITY NEWS
Now it’s time to celebrate 25 years of SVHS! Come to Homecoming on Oct. 19, beginning with a parade at 3 p.m. on Scotts Valley Drive and ending at Scotts Valley High, 555 Glenwood Drive.
Food trucks, BBQ and the Future Falcons Festival (for kids) start at 4 p.m. with a live concert featuring local favorite James Durbin & The Lost Boys Unplugged from 5 to 7 p.m.
“Hall of Fame” from page 7
She is a huge role model for our local runners. ~~~
Jackson Pasquini is a 2012 graduate of SVHS where he excelled at both football and basketball: He was a 4-year basketball player, scoring over 1,000 points and being selected his senior year to First Team All-SCCAL.
He was the quarterback of the varsity football team for two years, leading the team to successive winning seasons and again being selected his senior year to First Team All-SCCAL. He was voted male athlete of the year as a senior in 2012.
He went on to DeAnza Junior College where he continued to play basketball (20122014) and was selected to First Team All Coast Conference as a sophomore. He won a scholarship to Cal State East Bay and played the 2014-2016 seasons there.
After college, he joined the Finland Professional Basketball League (2017-2018) and spent a year with Oulun NMKY.
He is currently playing in the Pro Am in Sacramento and is employed full time as a firefighter with Alameda County Fire District.
Negine Mansour Dewitsky is a 2008 graduate of SVHS, where she was a 3-year starting forward on the varsity soccer team and a vital component in the program’s success in those years.
SVHS career highlights include SCCAL champs in 2005-06, competing in the CCS Div 3 final games in 2005-06, 2006-07, and 2007-08, and culminating in winning the Div 3 CCS Championship in 2007-08, where she scored the single and winning goal.
She was selected to SCCAL All-League First Team all three years, led the team in scoring her senior year with 11 goals and 6 assists, and accumulated 20 goals and 12 assists in her high school career.
Negine attended Holy Names University where she was a 4-year starter for the Hawk’s women’s soccer team. During her tenure the
The JV and varsity games begin at 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. respectively.
Tickets for the football game are $9 adults, $6 seniors 60+ and kids 6+.
Tickets for the game and the concert are $22 adults and $11 seniors and kids. n
See https://gofan.co/event/1586658?schoolId =CA19941
team won the CA Pac Conf in 2009 and 2010 and participated in the NAIA National Tournament in 2009 and 2011.
Negine won honorable mention as an AllConference player in CA Pacific in 2009 and 2010. She not only excelled on the field but as a student-athlete, becoming a member of Chi Alpha Sigma, the National College Athlete Honor Society and Daktronics Academic All American Cum Laude.
She subsequently attended the Law School of Lewis and Clark to obtain her law degree, returning to SVHS as a volunteer coach for the women’s soccer team while she was home studying for the bar exam. Negine is an outstanding role model and mentor and has helped assure the success of the program at SVHS.
She and her family now reside in the area and she practices law with Brereton, Mohamed & Terrazas LLP in Santa Cruz. ~~~
Grace Giguiere is a 2016 graduate of SVHS where she was on a court or athletic field every season.
For 3 years she was selected for First Team in softball, also years the team was league champs. She played four years of girls’ basketball, was team captain her senior year, when she also was selected First Team All-league Basketball, and once again were League champs.
She also excelled on the tennis court, where in her senior year she was team doubles champ and team captain. She was a consistent and steady leader who inspired her teammates to work harder and play smarter. She was voted SVHS Female Athlete for the class of 2016, and was selected by the Santa Cruz Sentinel as Female Athlete of the Year in Santa Cruz County.
Grace went on to Cabrillo College where she continued to excel, becoming a top player on the women’s basketball team where, as team captain, she led them to their first Conference championship in 40 years; she was also selected to the first team All-Conference.
On the softball field, she was once again team captain and one of the top hitters on the team. n •••
The price is $50 per ticket and includes a buffet dinner, cash bar and induction ceremony. Buy tickets at https://falconclubhalloffame.com/
Jackson Pasquini
Negine Dewitsky
Grace Giguiere
E-Bike Alert for Parents
By Randy Johnson, Mayor, City of Scotts Valley
Remember Sept. 7? So hot. That meant a trip to Santa Cruz for some relief. After a smash burger at West End Tap, we drove another half mile to West Cliff, where we got only a micro-dose of cool air, but it was sufficient to continue a walk.
A drive down the coast led us to East Cliff and right around Sunny Cove, there it was — not one, not two, but three 12-yearolds?? riding on the same e-bike with no helmets, on the sidewalk, going the wrong way.
Wow.
Talk about a clear and present danger to themselves and to drivers.
About a month ago, I brought up this
topic at a City Council meeting and it must have hit a nerve as many in the chamber, like me, have had close encounters with these silent but swift little machines.
A councilmember even had one hit her car as she pulled away from a stop sign.
My initial remedy was to have our police hold a morning instructional seminar to be attended by unlicensed riders/drivers, to help reduce the possibility of injury.
The very real question is should these young riders be required to have some sort of formal permit? Sadly, I read where a couple of young dirt e-bike riders were seriously injured in Santa Cruz, so the problem is real.
On Scotts Valley Drive, I recently saw a couple of high school students riding on an e-bike. The passenger clung to the driver with one hand and in the other she carried a pastry and a latte. Well-balanced but a little dangerous .
She had a helmet, but the driver did not. Stopped at the light, in a polite voice, I admoshied her that she should be wearing a helmet.
“We only have one,” was her response and with the green light scooted down Glenwood Drive toward the high school.
Probably going to need a little more help from the parents on this problem as the cautionary request of “Be safe” is not being heard.
Cultural Immersion
Entering Skypark for the Sept. 7 Multicultural Fair, I heard the first words from the Lion King being sung by students, doing their best rendition of “The Circle of Life.”
Being blasted by 95+ temperatures, I surmised the production had thought of everything, even importing the searing heat from the African Savanna or Serengeti. Impressive, but even more so was their dedicated attention to their craft and the joy they were giving to their audience.
I stood back and regarded the very interesting configuration of the different booths that beckoned the visitors, each with their unique cultural offerings. Peru, Palestine, Iran, Ireland, India and many more countries were represented and captured the attention of a very large and curious crowd. Children love crafts, activities and fun and there were plenty to choose from as the diverse settings attracted countless kids.
“SVHS Unity Starts Here Club” and the “Asian American Pacific Islander Club” were entertaining lots of visitors. And impressively, the planning and execution of this event was driven mostly by the high school students.
My high school experience typically offered a United Nations Day, where the guys would dress up in a suit and tie to discuss and debate solutions to a meaty subject like, “Will East and West Germany ever re-unite?” or “Is World Peace Possible?” A little contrived.
The Multicultural Fair was different. Much more purposeful, organic and real.
“Mayor Johnson” page 17
Sol Hot Yoga Expands to Larger Space in King’s Village Shopping Center
Ribbon Cutting: October 24, 5:30-7 p.m.
The Scotts Valley Chamber and Sol Hot Yoga invite the community to join us for a Ribbon Cutting Celebration on October 24th at their new location!
Sol Hot Yoga, a beloved yoga and fitness studio in the heart of Scotts Valley, just finished construction on an exciting expansion. Known for its diverse yoga modalities including 26&2, Vinyasa, and yin, alongside its abundant fitness offerings like Pilates and Barre, Sol Hot Yoga has become a staple for fitness enthusiasts from all over Santa Cruz County.
environment for yoga and fitness enthusiasts of all levels.
Instructors at Sol Hot Yoga are enthusiastic about the move, expressing their love for the community and their dedication to sharing the transformative benefits of yoga and fitness. They look forward to welcoming more members into the extended Sol family, fostering a supportive and healthy lifestyle community.
The studio’s decision to move into a larger space within the King’s Village shopping center marks a significant milestone. The new facility, one of the largest of its kind in the county, is equipped for both hot and unheated classes-offering community members more flexibility in their fitness routines. This expansion underscores Sol’s commitment to providing a welcoming
“We are thrilled to be able to offer more classes and accommodate a broader range of interests and schedules,” said owner Gema Lopez-Smith. “This move was a labor of love, and we are so excited to welcome the community into our new studio.”
Thursday October 17 Grand Opening & Red Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
5:30-7pm — Scotts Valley Wellness Center 5321 Scotts Valley Drive Suite 102, Scotts Valley
Thursday October 24
Grand Opening & Red Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
5:30-7pm — Sol Hot Yoga
Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or a newcomer curious about starting your fitness journey, Sol Hot Yoga invites you to explore their new space. With a variety of classes and a warm community atmosphere, Sol promises a fulfilling experience for all who seek wellness and balance.
Come visit Sol Hot Yoga’s new location in King’s Village shopping center and discover a place where fitness meets community, and where health is nurtured through every pose and every class.
The Scotts Valley Wellness Center Grand Open & Red Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
Thursday, Oct. 17 • 5:30 – 7 pm
The Scotts Valley Wellness Center is thrilled to celebrate the Grand Opening of its new haven for holistic health and wellness in our community. Owned and operated by Sarah Joy Zell, a craniosacral therapist and massage practitioner, the center embodies a commitment to nurturing the mind, body, and spirit. Sarah Joy brings a wealth of experience and passion for healing to The Scotts Valley Wellness Center. With a deep understanding of the body’s natural rhythms and an intuitive approach to therapy, she specializes in craniosacral therapy— a gentle, hands-on technique that
promotes relaxation and facilitates the body’s self-healing processes. This therapy is particularly effective for those dealing with stress, pain, and emotional challenges.
In addition to craniosacral therapy, Sarah Joy offers massage therapy designed to enhance physical and mental wellbeing. Her techniques are tailored to meet the unique needs of each client, ensuring a personalized experience that fosters healing and rejuvenation.
At The Scotts Valley Wellness Center, Sarah Joy aims to create a serene environment where clients feel safe and supported on their
healing journeys. Her vision extends beyond individual sessions; she envisions building a community hub that encourages connection, education, and personal growth. The Center is intended to grow and expand to be a home to talented, independent healing arts practitioners and their thriving practices.
5th Annual Halloween Treasure Hunt 10am-9pm — Start at Togo’s Scotts Valley 266 Mt. Hermon Rd., Scotts Valley
Thursday Jan. 16, 2025 Grand Opening & Red Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
5:30-7pm — Fintastic Fish 224-C Mt. Hermon Rd., Scotts Valley
Friday May 9, 2025
Valley Community
Visit Sarah Joy’s business at www. TheScottsValleyWellnessCenter.com to learn more about all the great healing services they have to offer.
The Scotts Valley Wellness Center invites you to join them for this special Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on October 17th from 5:30 – 7 pm at 5321 Scotts Valley Drive, Suite 102. You can meet Sarah Joy, learn about her services, and explore the welcoming atmosphere of The Scotts Valley Wellness Center. Together, let’s celebrate a new chapter in our community’s wellness journey!
5th Annual Scotts Valley Halloween Treasure Hunt
October 26 & October 31
Back by popular demand, Togo’s Scotts Valley and the Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce are proud to announce the Fifth Annual Scotts Valley Halloween Treasure Hunt!
For this year’s Halloween Treasure Hunt, we are adding a second day! Come pickup your Treasure Map
either Saturday, Oct. 26, or Thursday October 31st from Togo’s Scotts Valley and begin your journey.
The event runs from 10 a.m. — 9 p.m. on both days and participating businesses on the map will be sharing treasure. Sights, sounds and adventure await.
There is fun for all ages!
This event was created in 2020, during the Covid pandemic, by the Scotts Valley Economic Recovery Task Force and was spearheaded by the owner of Togo’s, Greg Wimp.
During that year, kids could not go trick-or-treating.
ANew Member Spotlight Fintastic Fish
brand-new aquarium and tropical fish store is now located in the Kings Village Shopping Center. Specializing in freshwater fish and aquatic plants, they have over 15 years of fishkeeping experience to offer the community.
Whether you are starting up your first aquarium or maintaining an established tank, Fintastic Fish has everything you need to keep your fish happy and healthy.
Fintastic Fish is locally owned and operated by Devin Runneals, a lifelong Boulder Creek resident and former SLVHS math teacher. With a passion for nature and education, Runneals started the business hoping to amend the lack of good local fish stores in the area.
This event gave families something fun to do and brought much needed foot traffic to our local businesses during those difficult times. It also encouraged our community to shop local. It was such a hit that we have been proud to carry on the tradition since then.
If you would like to sign your business up for this event, please go to bit.ly/SVHalloween-24, scan the QR code, or visit the Scotts Valley Chamber’s website at ScottsValleyChamber.com.
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Offering a wide selection of freshwater fish, live and frozen fish food, aquatic plants, aquariums and supplies, Fintastic Fish aims to revamp the aquarium hobby in the community.
Fintastic Fish is located at 224 C Mount Hermon Road, right between Pure Valley Water and Scotts Valley Canton. Their hours are Wednesday-Saturday 10 a.m.-6 p.m., and Sunday 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. They are looking forward to serving the community 7 days a week in the near future. If you have questions, you can call them at (831) 316-3424 or visit www.fintasticfishstore.com.
City of Scotts Valley Election Updates
Tuesday, Nov. 5 is Election Day
California election officials will mail a ballot to all registered voters starting Oct. 7. In addition, Vote Centers will be established and open for in-person voting starting Oct. 26 through Tuesday, Nov. 5. Eligible voters can register to vote or check their voter registration status online by Oct. 21 at www.registertovote.ca.gov.
After Oct. 21, eligible voters can register at the County elections office or designated locations through the Same Day Voter Registration process. Contact the Santa Cruz County Elections Office for more information on registering to vote.
You can drop off your complete ballot at Scotts Valley City Hall, 1 Civic Center Drive, Scotts Valley, 24/7 in the secure drop box.
In addition, Vote Centers will open Oct. 26 at the Scotts Valley Public Library, 251 Kings Village Road, and on Nov. 2 at Scotts Valley High School, 555 Glenwood Drive.
Vote Centers are open through Election Day, Nov. 5, until polls close at 8 p.m.
candidates running for City Council at the City’s Elections website: www.scottsvalley.gov/193/ elections.
There are seven candidates running for three City Council seats. Learn more about the
Stress & Anxiety: Understanding & Managing the Pressures of Life
TherapyWorks Online Workshop • Oct. 9, 9 a.m.
At TherapyWorks, they believe that everyone should have the opportunity to learn about important mental health topics.
That’s why they are excited to offer a series of complimentary workshops designed to share essential knowledge and practical tools for managing mental health.
Whether you’re currently engaged in 1:1 therapy and seeking a deeper dive into a particular subject, or simply looking to broaden your understanding, these workshops are for you. This content can be explored independently as a valuable resource or complement your ongoing therapy.
The topic for October’s Workshop will be “Stress and Anxiety: Understanding and Managing the Pressures of Life”.
Join this insightful discussion on stress and anxiety with expert therapist, Eddie Smith.
This workshop will cover the basics of stress and anxiety, common triggers, and effective strategies to manage these feelings in everyday life.
Whether you’re curious about mental health or looking for ways to handle stress better, this workshop is a great starting point.
Register at https://mytherapyworks.com/ workshops.
•••
The Scotts Valley City Council has also placed Measure X on the Nov. 5 ballot.
Measure X, if passed by the voters, would modernize the City’s 32-year-old Business License Tax rates. All businesses located in Scotts Valley, or doing business in Scotts Valley are required to have a business license.
The tax rate can only be changed by the voters, and the current rate hasn’t changed since 1992.
The proposed measure would increase the minimum tax from $90 per year to $150 per year and would be higher for larger businesses.
Revenue from the business license tax is used to support City services and infrastructure.
The new tax rate would increase annual revenue from $350,000 to $1.1M per year.
Learn more about Measure X at the City’s website: www.scottsvalley.gov/blt.
Now Accepting Nomination for the 2024 Scotts Valley Community Awards
The Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce seeks your assistance in recognizing the people and businesses that make our community such a special place.
Please send us your 2024 nominations for outstanding businesses and individuals for the following categories:
• Alvin Scarborough Memorial MAN OF THE YEAR
• Annette Marcum Memorial WOMAN OF THE YEAR
• YOUTH OF THE YEAR
• EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR
• BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
• ORGANIZATION OF THE YEAR
• Claire Hodgin Memorial BEAUTIFICATION PROJECT OF SCOTTS VALLEY
Criteria for Nomination
• Each nominee must have made a valuable contribution to Scotts Valley.
• It may be in the previous year or over a period of time which you specify.
• A business of the year nominee must be a current Scotts Valley Chamber member.
• An individual may live or work outside the city limits, but their contribution must be within Scotts Valley.
• Youth of the year nominee must be of High School age. •••
Nominating is Quick and Easy! Go to ScottsValleyChamber.com and help us honor the leaders of our community.
Scotts Valley Chamber News
Blue Innovation 2024 Take the 2024 Business Survey
Blue
about protecting our ocean and water sources.
There is an urgent need, as well as an opportunity, for scalable new technologies, solutions, and ven tures to improve ocean and water sustainability.
Join Santa Cruz Works on Sunday, October 6, 2024, from 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m. for a variety of activities in and outside of the UC Santa Cruz Seymour Marine Discovery Center for a full day of inspirational exhibits from companies, artists, small businesses, non-profits, and researchers who are tackling the water and ocean challenges created by climate change.
Enjoy food trucks, live bands, tours, scavenger hunts, fun hands on activities for all ages, and information on the latest technologies, research, and programs for supporting our blue planet.
Don’t miss the O’Neill Sea Odyssey raffle with prizes like local dinners and a sunset sail. Register for free and be automatically entered. Winners will be announced at 1:45 pm and must be present to claim prizes.
All outdoor activities are FREE and open to the public (e.g., lightning talks, exhibits, tours, bands, food trucks, etc). Workshops require paid admission and access to the Seymour Center’s interior exhibit hall, both require a separate admission fee.
Blue Innovation is hosted by Santa Cruz Works and the Seymour Marine Discovery Center at UC Santa Cruz in collaboration with UC Santa Cruz Innovation and Business Engagement Hub, the City of Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz County Office of Education, and Cabrillo College.
Blue Innovation is sponsored by the UC Santa Cruz Center for Coastal Climate Resilience, Ocean Film Festival, and the O’Neill Sea Odyssey.
The Scotts Valley Economic Development Committee (formerly the Economic Recovery Task Force) is a collaboration between the Chamber of Commerce and the City of Scotts Valley.
During the Pandemic and the CZU Fires, this Committee rose to meet those challenges, providing vital assistance and information, including signage, reopening kits, grant & loan assistance, as well as informational webinars.
These efforts helped several businesses survive those difficult times, and the committee was even recognized as Organization of the Year for its efforts.
Now, the committee is looking at the road ahead and wants to continue making a tangible difference in helping our local businesses. To that end, the committee wants to “take the temperature” of the current business climate, and for this they need your help!
If you are a business owner, please take a few minutes to fill out the survey which can be found at scottsvalleychamber.com. It is the Committee’s hope that the information gathered in this survey will serve as “roadmap” in the year to come as the Committee sets its future goals and continues to meet the needs of our local businesses.
Deborah Cypert Owner Bobbie Frandeen CoOwner/Estimator Todd Ivy Sales/Estimator
The beauty of cork, wood and laminates
Featuring Graber and Hunter Douglas Custom Draperies and Roman Shades!
Safety for Scotts Valley Drive
Scotts Valley Drive, built in its current form in the late 1990s, needs restoration — and on Sept. 18, after the City Council heard consultants Kimley-Horn outline four options with much public comment, the Council opted to pursue Option 1.
This option, described as the least impactful, aims to improve bike and pedestrian safety by narrowing the existing five driving lanes to allow for wider buffered bike lanes.
The City is planning to resurface and restripe the roadway, which provides an opportunity to make safety improvements.
Scotts Valley Drive sees an average of 7,905 vehicles headed north and 8,732 headed south every day.
Peak hours are 8 a.m. when parents drop off students at Scotts Valley High and then at 4 p.m. when classes are over.
At the school midday peak, more than 60 pedestrians are on Scotts Valley Drive and about two dozen bicyclists.
From 2013 to 2023, there have been four collisions between someone on foot and a car, two minor and two noinjury, with the cause driving too fast and failure to yield.
No collisions were fatal.
During that 10 years, there were 11 bike collisions, 8 minor injury due to failure to yield, and 2 no injury.
One injury was serious, due to an improper turn.
In 2023, about 64% opted for car, and 28.6% are passengers according to data company Replica, 2.9% walking and 1.0 percent biking. Only 2% ride the bus, and that is down from 6% in 2019.
The four options were derived from the City’s Active Transportation Plan, adopted in March 2021, which emphasizes the need for safer infrastructure for high school and middle school students to walk or bike to school using Scotts Valley Drive.
Option 2 was a buffered bike lane, with no center lane.
Option 3 was a separate track for bicyclists.
Option 4 was street beautification.
“Scotts Valley Drive” page 22
Mabuhay! Matthew Richard David Valencia
Matthew was born late. He was often running late, but when he arrived, he brought light into the room! It began at his birth. His due date was on Thanksgiving, 1997. Much of the family from Southern California came up to San Jose during Thanksgiving break to be there for his birth.
By Dec. 8, he still had not come, and they all had to return home. Matthew was born at Santa Teresa Hospital on Dec. 10, 1997, on the 7th floor in a room facing east. As soon as he was delivered, the light of sunrise poured into the room illuminating a full head of black wavy hair… and wrinkly skin that looked like he had been in a bathtub too long!
Born to Matt and DeAnna Valencia, he was their little “Sugar Bear” because he always wanted to give and show love. Matthew came into the world with an energy and enthusiasm that his big sister, Rebekah, adored… most of the time.
Matty, as he was known when he was little, had that distinct raspy Valencia voice and a million-dollar smile that won the affection of so many children at Bekah’s school and of the young adults at Calvary Chapel San Jose, where Mom and Dad lived and worked for the first couple of years of his life.
Living in NorCal, the family vacationed every summer and every Christmas with family in SoCal, and it was like a second home to him. Summers in Grandma’s pool provided a feeling of warmth and an environment of love with Grandma, Grandpa, Nonnie, the cousins, Aunties, and Uncles.
The Valencia family moved to Gilroy in 2000 where Dad was planting a new church. Matthew loved playing on the farm and
climbing on all the rusty metal of old farm equipment. 3½ years into Matthew’s life, his brother, Josiah, was born on Christmas Eve, just two weeks after Matthew’s birthday. Along with Bo, their cousin, they often celebrated their birthdays together in L.A. after Christmas. Matthew loved being a big brother to Josiah and inspired him to climb trees along the creek in Gilroy before Josiah was quite ready for such feats.
The cries of “Maaathewwww!” were often heard as Josiah would try to keep up with his big brother.
Ellie was born when Matthew was almost 8. At times he would do his homework writing with his right hand as he held Ellie on his lap with his left.
As Matthew taught himself to play piano, she would mimic him and sing at the top of her lungs. There was so much light and joy in the house when they would sing together. He accompanied Ellie on the piano in her talent show debut playing Castle on a Cloud from Les Misérables.
Kenny, and Ellie, they loved watching Anime cartoons late into the night.
Matthew attended Pacific West Christian Academy in Gilroy for K-8th grade. He skipped 1st grade because he was already reading and doing math at the 5th grade level in kindergarten. Naturally inquisitive, he was hungry to learn new things that were beyond the curriculum. He got a lead in many church plays because he could memorize huge chunks of lines, but when he first sang a solo in the school play, it was so beautiful that even some of his teachers began to tear up.
A “star” was born. He played flag football and scored 5 touchdowns in a game, but he loved basketball and gymnastics too.
School president, salutatorian, and “cool kid,” he was so compassionate and carried empathy for others — especially kids who were not always accepted.
quick, Matthew played football, but he loved the unstructured and free movements of parkour and skating. His freshman year, he tried out for the school musical and wanted to run track, too. The teacher said to DeAnna, “Oh, he’s not going to run track. He can make a living doing this and I do not say that lightly.”
Ambitious and always pushing himself to new limits, Matt V, as they called him, filled his schedule with International Bacalaureate classes, became the ASB Vice President, and won the Mr. Scotts Valley talent contest! He taught himself guitar, piano, ukulele, Photoshop, and After Effects, but good luck getting him to try to teach you. Trying to keep up with him was like trying to keep up with a hummingbird in a hurricane.
Abbi was born a couple of years after Ellie. It is so interesting how family dynamics work. Every member loves every other member, but there are special relationships that form amongst siblings. During the past 2 years that Matthew lived at home, he and Abbi became close friends. Their humor, sarcasm, and cringe reactions to anything cringeworthy would often result in the two of them laughing hysterically while DeAnna and Matt just wondered what was happening. Along with
The Valencia family moved to Scotts Valley in 2012 and Matthew started at Scotts Valley High School in 9th grade. Athletic and
While very capable in mathematics, history, philosophy, and writing, his creative genius was his forte. With that, he decided to attend Cal State Fullerton to get a Bachelor of Fine Arts with an emphasis in acting. When his dad told him Hollywood is filled with actors who are waiters, he said, “I know, and I may have to go back and learn about business or work.”
“Matthew Valencia” page 18
Libra, Sign of Choice & Our Names Inscribed in the Book of Life
We are under the light of Libra now, sign of choice, goodwill and creating right relations with our world and all that we encounter. Libra is also the sign of balance. In Libra we often oscillate between two opposing ideas until an understanding is achieved.
In Libra, we make a serious, spiritual life choice. Do we return to previous realities or move forward into Scorpio’s Nine Tests and training for discipleship. Libra offers us an interlude where we assess the two paths ahead so contemplation and right choice can be made.
Reflecting on this Libra choice is Robert Frost’s poem, The Road Not Taken: Two roads diverged in a yellow wood. I could not travel both. Long I stood and looked down one. Then took the other — the one less traveled. And that has made all the difference.
Risa D’Angeles
The evening of the new moon is the first of the autumn Jewish festivals — that of Rosh Hashanah (Oct. 2 – 4). This begins the High Holy Days or “Days of Awe” in the Jewish religion.
Esoteric disciples participate in all the religious festivals around the world. Rosh Hashanah is the Jewish New Year. It celebrates the creation of the world and is one of the holiest days in the Jewish calendar. Two days of reflecting on the past year and asking forgiveness for any wrong doing.
Festivals in October: Libra new moon, solar eclipse occurs Wednesday, October 2, 2024. Solar eclipses inform humanity something essential in our lives has come to an end, its purpose completed. Libra tells us, as our world shifts and changes, to remain calm, composed and poised, handle relationships with right attitude and finances with right economy.
ARIES
An interesting planetary configuration is occurring between Pluto and the other planets. Especially for you, Aries. A connection between your work in the world (Pluto in Capricorn) and relationships, partnerships (Venus in Libra). It’s best to focus on Good will which creates Right Relations in both areas. Venus is at play here calling for an intelligent heart and loving mind. Have this intentional commitment and then “providence provides the rest.”
TAURUS
What I wrote for Aries, applies to all the signs. For you, too Taurus, because Venus is your ruler. There’s a connection between your day-today work/tasks and service to the idea of justice, teachings and/or travel. All ideas become ideals. You may be called to lead, to educate, to illuminate (your constant task). You must, simultaneously, take care of your health (your entrustment) and maintain vitality. Your teachings balance, develop and harmonize people’s minds.
GEMINI
So many things to tell you as I look at your chart. The past, in review, is eliminating a previous sense of self as not creative. You must (perhaps are already) provide recognition for self as creative and in turn praise to others for their attempts. Do not be wry or ironic. Do not withhold praise. A new level of creativity is being formed within as you recognize creativity in others. In the meantime, a question - what do others have that you wish you had?
CANCER
If I could use only one word that always points to you it would be HOME. And so, I will ask what’s occurring there? What from the past, what is being remembered and what imbalance is seeking a new balance? Disharmony always seeks a new level of harmony. What’s needed to be eliminated for you to feel more at home? What would soothe and comfort you? It’s important to recognize your needs in relation to others. What must change? What story do you want to tell?
Seven days after the Jewish New Year, evening of Oct, 11, is Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement), a day of introspection and reconciliation with God. Should we ask and offer forgiveness, the Lord signs and seals our names in the Book of Life.
No matter our religion, these holy festivals are significant, as they bring about a harmony, goodwill and a peace into our lives and for those around us. May we all offer words of blessing to each other during these holy Days of Awe are “May your name be inscribed in the Book of Life for the coming year. L’shanah tovah.” n
LEO
Several heavenly lights are influencing your communication house (and Pluto’s influencing your world of day-to-day living, service to self and others, gardens and small animals). Something vital concerning the past needs communicating, to you or from you. Whatever it is may feel like interruption. The goal is for a new level of peace, calmness, goodwill and right relations. Your daily life and work have been through a transformative stage, slowly and over time. What is the outcome and who are you now?
VIRGO
The planets influencing your 2nd (values) and 5th (creativity, will) houses assist in your awareness to and relationship with money and finances. They ask what are your personal resources, how do you use material resources and what is of value? We are to see all resources as life energies and as possessions to be used for the betterment of self and others. It’s important at this time to ponder, write down, define and articulate your spiritual values. Gains result with the right use and sharing of resources.
LIBRA
Perhaps, out of necessity, you’ve become inner oriented and self-protective, even secretive, about something. Do you feel guilt for choices recently made (or will make)? Are you reassessing relationships with parents, perhaps mother, in order to understand what was given to you as a child and what wasn’t? Do you feel your early life prepared you for the present? Or do you harbor fears and sadnesses? Over time, as you gain in experiences, you will understand and that feeling wounding will transform. You will see the truth. And heal.
SCORPIO
So much of what you hear you believe (know) to be untruths. You know much of accepted information, education, science and history, is actually not real. You observe and instinctively search for reality, the truth and come to understand encoded messages. You’re then able to communicate to others with intelligence and decisiveness the actual happenings in the world. Many can resist what you know. Few understand. Do not be deterred. The truth is out there and your task is to unveil it. Careful, always.
SAGITTARIUS
You know how to build resources. You know that sentimentality, nostalgia and idealism are part of why you have, keep and cherish certain possessions. You’re driven at times to make money. You don’t share easily. It’s not selfishness. It’s pride of ownership (like Taurus). However, in the times to come, as certain things will no longer be necessary, you will learn more about having less, sharing more, change and transformation. Strength and innate understanding will hold you. You will then teach others about adaptability.
CAPRICORN
Let’s just tell the truth here. Your responsibilities these days are immense, and that’s because you’re developing leadership abilities. Over time this creates personal magnetism. These are not compliments. These are realities about how your presence is experienced by others. Recognizing this allows you to understand why others may struggle with you, turn away, protect themselves and at times be defensive. It’s important that we always praise excellence. However, most people are unable. They turn away, intimidated. Understand that Caps are like the Sun, a light Supernal. You carry wisdom. You’re often alone. It’s purposeful. I see excellence!
AQUARIUS
The Aquarian era, the future, the place where you come from is here! You have a task now and so for the times to comes, you will experience a growth of perception, intuition and knowing. There will be an unexpected uncovering of secrets and dreams, a most interesting gift. As world energies become more complex you will need more private time for absorption and reflection. Don’t repress emotions or deep needs. Stay away from anything addictive. Help others in all ways. Some Aquarians become healers.
PISCES
Life energies are hastening and quickening and this will continue, especially next year. You will not be on the sidelines as the changes continue to accelerate in our world. You cannot be. You are (and will be) an important and effective leader with a strong sense of ideals, great intelligence and unlimited power. Many can misunderstand this power, thinking it is power-over. They will not understand your power as “power-with.” They will miss your purpose and importance. Let them fall away. You are a leader within a great social change, a change of the Ages. Step forward with confidence. Wear sturdy shoes.
“Matthew Valencia” from page 17
With fearlessness and energy to face whatever came before him, he launched out. In the past 4 years, he wrote a musical that was produced by the university, wrote a graphic novel, produced multiple CD’s, and acted in several projects and plays.
Matthew, or Mako, as some people came to know him oozed with creativity, dripping from his fingertips and flowing from his heart and mind. The worlds he would create were multi-verses complete with their own species, language, and atmosphere. However, it’s not just his artistic ability and talent that people loved about Matthew; it was the inspiration and encouragement he brought to others.
Nate said, “Matthew knew himself and was free to be himself. He did not expect others to be like him. He wanted each person to be who they were created to be, not who he thought they should be.”
While most of the family was on vacation a couple of weeks ago, Matthew was determined to relaunch his career and moved back to L.A. He never wanted anyone to worry about him. He left with a gleam in his eye and an excitement in his voice about the future. He was our “gift from God.”
Our beautiful and beloved son, grandson, brother, cousin, nephew, and friend, did not get to start those plans as he had anticipated and we are so sad not to be able to hear his music, see him perform, and experience his humor. But most of all, we are sad not to have him here with us. In the past few years, he made such an intentional effort to greet people and then hug them and say “I love you” more often than he ever had. The great majority of people grow out of seeing the world through a lens of excitement and adventure when they become adults, but Matthew continued to see the world with “wonderment.” What Matthew is seeing now finally exceeds his imagination and expectations!
Matthew, until we meet again, save us a place at the Table. We love you too. Mabuhay!
Matthew is survived by his parents DeAnna and Matt Valencia, his siblings Rebekah, Josiah, Elisha, and Abigail, his brother-in-law Nate Hennes, his grandparents Nonnie and Grandpa Rudy, and so many relatives whom he loved. Family was central to his life.
A special thank you to ReGeneration Church for honoring Matthew and supporting his family during this time of grief, to Kelly Cox who organized a GoFundMe in Matthew’s honor, and to the community who has rallied around his family.
In lieu of flowers, the family prefers donations be made to ReGeneration Church with “M.D.V.” in the memo which will be given in his name to an organization to help people through trauma. n
•••
Editor’s note: Matthew Valencia died Aug. 27 in Los Angeles County in a freeway crash. Mabuhay is a Filipino greeting that means “be alive.” Find the fundraiser at https://www.gofundme.com/f/ in-loving-memory-of-matthew-valencia
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■ Use Black Bean or Bark to create the popular dark window look with matching interior and exterior frames.
■ Ultra Series windows are covered by the Milgard Lifetime Limited Warranty for peace of mind.
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
ANNOUNCEMENTS
SCOTTS VALLEY HAUNTED HOUSE FOR KIDS
October 24-26, Scotts Valley High School, 555 Glenwood Dr. Scotts Valley Haunted House, a 21-year tradition hosted by students at Scotts Valley High School to raise money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, has been newly designed for elementary school children and parents. In the past, it was geared for teens.
When the last school year ended in May, Tanya Krause, superintendent of the Scotts Valley Unified School District, alerted parents as to the change, calling it an experiment.
“This year, we are going to try something different and tailor the event to be more of a kids’ night and a family fun focus,” she wrote. “The students involved are excited to roll out the new idea and are busy planning for a different type of event. Additionally, there will be booths and Thriller Dancers for participants to enjoy.”
She thanked Erik Duffy, the teacher advisor and the Haunted House student team, which began meeting on the changes last spring.
Krause wrote, “Mr. Duffy has shared that he is excited about this change and the new realm of possibilities for things that haven’t been done before. Likewise, the outdoor festival will be getting a major upgrade to appeal to younger children and their parents, and he is excited about what we may have to offer.”
She added, “For the past 21 years, SVHS students have been excited and look forward to participating in the Haunted House. The value of this experience and the memories created are invaluable and we are excited to see the event continue. We ask that the community help support this event.”
Tickets are $10 before Oct. 22 and $15 starting Oct. 23 at https://svhaunt.org/public/tickets.html Hours are 4 to 8 p.m. at the campus, 555 Glenwood Drive. Tickets arrive via email.
STATE OFFERS AID
Were you a resident of Santa Cruz County in 2020? You could be eligible for the ReCoverCA Homebuyer Assistance Program, which is designed to help low- to moderate-income households purchase a home in California outside of high or very high Fire Hazard Severity Zones such as San Lorenzo Valley and the area surrounding the main streets of Scotts Valley by offering assistance up to $350,000 per household.
Highlights:
• Assistance forgiven after five years ownership and occupancy
• For a family of four, the income limit is $145,300
• Renters or homeowners in Santa Cruz County in 2020 eligible
• FICO scores as low as 640 can qualify
• Single-family homes, townhomes, condos, and manufactured homes eligible
• FHA, VA, USDA and conventional mortgage loan financing available
See https://gsfahome.org/programs/ReCoverCA/HBA10-HB-FAQ.pdf
Mitigation Retrofit Grants
ALL Santa Cruz County homeowners can apply to receive up to $50,000 of ReCoverCA Owner-Occupied Wildfire Mitigation Retrofit funds for defensible space and/or home hardening needs on their property.
To qualify, you must earn under 80% of area median income. Homeowners do not need to have been impacted by the 2020 CZU fire to qualify.
Visit Long Term Recovery Group - ReCoverCA Owner Occupied Mitigation Grants (sccltrg.org) for eligibility requirements and links to program application.
Have a virtual or live event you want to promote? E-mail info (no PDFs please) to info@cyber-times.com For beginning of the month, due the 15th • For mid-month, due the 1st
Oct. 21: Last day to register to vote for the November 2024 election and receive a ballot and voter guide in the mail.
Oct. 26: Three more in-person voting locations open.
Nov. 2: Thirteen more in-person voting locations open.
Nov. 5: Election Day – polls open at 7am and close at 8pm. Nov. 12: Vote by mail ballots postmarked on or before Election Day and received by Nov. 12 will be counted.
Dec. 3: Last day to certify election results.
REMEMBER YOUR COSMIC ROOTS
The Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History announces Re:Collect: Remember Your Cosmic Roots, an exhibition from Oct. 18 to March 2, at 70 Front St., with guest curator Luna High-John Bey.
She is a Santa Cruz-based activist, historian, and community organizer, project lead for the London Nelson Legacy Initiative, and African American healer and spiritualist.
The exhibition will take guests on a sensory journey through mixed media art, provoking thoughts around the intersection of cosmic memory, ancestral narratives, and visionary imagination.
As Indigenous people, the gift of remembering our roots, cosmic or not, has been intentionally stripped away. This exhibit is the first step in understanding this hidden history within ourselves.
Featured artists include Dynasty Ogun, Alim Smith, Zoe Boston, Witch Prophet, Zuzu, Soull Ogun, and Shogun Shido.
Re:Collect aims to awaken the dormant memories of the ancestors inside each of us with questions like: How do we interpret what lives inside us, yet feels so foreign? How do we tap into this reservoir of knowledge? How do we navigate the interplay between what we remember from the past and what we envision for the future? How do we acknowledge the deliberate inaccessibility of ancestral memory?
AMERICAN PICKERS COMING IN NOVEMBER
American Pickers is planning to travel to California in November and the team is looking for interesting characters with fascinating items. The way they find people and collections for the show is through spreading the word far and wide.
For info, see American Pickers on the History Channel. Collectors interested in being considered for the show should call (646) 493-2184 or email AmericanPickers@ cineflix.com. Include their full name, city/state, contact information, and a brief description of their collection. Note that the Pickers only pick private collections, so NO stores, malls, flea markets, museums, auctions, businesses, or anything open to the public.
HIGH HOLY DAYS
Wednesday October 2 thru Friday October 3
ROSH HASHANAH
Friday October 11, Saturday October 12
YOM KIPPUR
See Below, Temple Beth El, 3055 Porter Gulch Rd., Aptos
FELTON LIBRARY ACTIVITIES
6121 Gushee St.
Fun fact: Felton Library programs attracted 6,877 people in fiscal year 2023-24, more than any other branch. Felton offered 360 programs.
Wednesday, Oct. 9: Container Planting Basics. 10:30am - 12:30pm.
Choosing the correct pot, soil, and plants, and how to keep them happy and healthy. Community-led instructor Jet Van Ausdall has worked at Scarborough Gardens in Scotts Valley for 16 years.
Registration required.
Wednesdays, Oct. 9 & 23: Tenants’ Rights 1-on-1 Counseling. 3:30 - 5:30pm.
For renters who would like 1-on-1 support from a tenant rights counselor to discuss an issue with housing. In your 25 minute session, you will learn about your legal rights and how to use these rights to address your situation. Some topics that can be addressed are unsafe or unsanitary housing conditions, rental increases, eviction and threats or harassment, and communication with a landlord. This program occurs every other week. Call Felton Branch Library at (831) 427-7708 or visit to register for your free, 25-minute appointment.
Saturday, Oct. 19: Basic Composting Workshop. 10:30 am-12:30 pm.
Jeffrey Smedberg, Marla King and Richard Dye cover general principles of composting and provide sufficient detail about backyard and worm composting to help someone get started. Time for participants’ questions. Registration is limited to 25. Sign up online or call 831-824-6484.
SCOTTS VALLEY LIBRARY ACTIVITIES
Saturday, Oct. 5: Authors Talk Books, 4-5 p.m.
Authors Elizabeth McKenzie (The Portable Veblen) and Leslie Karst (The Sally Solari Mysteries) will discuss their new books and writing adventures. Hear how their latest books, “The Dog of the North” and “Molten Death,” were conceived and developed. Friends since their college days at UC Santa Cruz both authors will read a bit from their books. A selection of the authors’ books will be available for purchase and signing at the end of the event.
Wednesday, Oct. 9: Navigating Menopause Rollercoaster, 4-6 p.m.
Gain the fitness and nutrition tools to successfully navigate the menopause rollercoaster from Rebecca Hazelton, a licensed nutritionist, and Amelia Foster, a Doctor of Physical Therapy.
Saturday, Oct: 12: Friends of Scotts Valley Library Book Sale, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Gently used books, puzzles, CDs. Start Christmas shopping early.
High Holy Days services take place at Temple Beth El in Aptos. Services are in the Sanctuary and available on Livestream (requires a passcode).
Oct. 2 — Erev Rosh Hashanah: 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Thursday, Oct. 24: Second annual Spooktober Celebration! 3-4:30 p.m.
Wear your costumes and enjoy music, stories, games, prizes and snacks.
Third Saturdays: Parenting Group, 1:30-2:30 p.m.
Third Wave ABA hosts a parenting group for caregivers raising neurodivergent individuals with behavior challenges and delays from toddlers to teens.
Topics include Autism and Neurodiversity, Behavior Challenges, Feelings as Parents, Social Norms, and Compassionate Self-Care
See thirdwaveaba.com
CALL TO ARTISTS
An artist will be selected to create a site-specific public art component for Floral County Park, 656 38th Ave. in Pleasure Point.
The deadline for submitting a proposal is Oct. 18. Many elements of the 1990s-era play structure are no longer functional, and its sand surface makes it inaccessible to visitors with mobility issues. Playground upgrades will include a new structure and rubberized surfacing, which will increase accessibility for people who use wheelchairs. The proximity of the park to the iconic Pleasure Point tide pools inspired the playground’s design concept, which was selected by the community during the outreach process.
Artists may propose a free-standing piece, a work that enhances or enlivens one or more of the already existing park elements, or educational art panels to compliment the tide pool design of the playground surface. It is recommended that artists visit the park to get a better sense of the location and public art opportunities. The budget for the project is $6,750.
A “Call to Artists,” with details and a sample contract, is at: https://parks.santacruzcountyca.gov/Home/AboutUs/WorkWithUs/CalltoArtists.aspx
COUNTY FAIR BOARD MEETINGS
The Santa Cruz County Fair Board will meet each month in 2024 except September and November. Remaining dates are Oct. 22, and Dec. 3. There is no meeting in September or November. Meetings typically begin at 1:30 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday in the Heritage Building at the fairgrounds, 2601 East Lake Blvd., Watsonville.
For agendas, posted 10 days in advance, see santacruzcountyfair.com
ONGOING EVENTS
Mondays
BRIDGE CLUB
10:30 a.m.-Noon, 7695 Soquel Dr, Aptos, CA 95003
The Aptos Branch Library will host Bridge Club sessions on Mondays (except holidays).
Bridge Club is a partnership between Santa Cruz County Parks and Santa Cruz Public Libraries. Register at scparks.com or in-person the day of the event.
First Wednesdays
SONS IN RETIREMENT
Time TBD, Elks Lodge, 150 Jewell St., Santa Cruz
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If these programs have helped you, Scotts Valley Times wants to share this good news with the community. Email editor Jondi Gumz at info@cyber-times.com
NOV. 5 ELECTION: IMPORTANT
Oct.
Oct. 3 — First Day: 8:45 am – 1:30 pm*
Oct. 4 — Second Day: 8:45 am – 1:30 pm
Oct. 11 — Kol Nidre: 5:45 pm
Oct. 12 — Shabbat: 8:45 am – 2:00 pm (Mincha: 3:30 pm • Yizkor: 5:00 pm • Ne’ilah: 5:45 pm • Shofar: 7:00 pm)
* Young Family Service for parents with children 5 and younger: 10:00 am – 11:00 am. Family Service for parents with children in elementary school: 11:00 am – 12:00 pm. Family services will be conducted in the tent. Visit the website to make reservations. For details, see www.tbe.org/high-holy-days/
SIR (Sons In Retirement) is a nonprofit, nonpolitical public benefit organization of senior men. The organization’s mission is to enhance the lives of its members through social events while making friends.
The Twin Valleys, Santa Cruz Branch welcomes new members and meets the first Wednesday of each month. Contact Ray Disperati at 831-588-8876 for information.
Last Wednesdays of the Month
PARENT/CAREGIVER MENTAL HEALTH SEMINARS
5:30 – 6:30 p.m., Online Meeting
Dr. Ramona Friedman of the Center for Child and Adolescent Mental Health in Soquel will be hosting a free Parent Drop-in Zoom session. Parents and caregivers are invited to log on and ask questions to Dr. Friedman about youth mental health issues, challenges, and ideas.
Parent Drop-Ins are free, 1-hour sessions where parents can seek guidance from experts specializing in specific mental health disorders. Parents can also connect with others facing similar challenges.
Clinical psychologists who specialize in anxiety, depression, eating disorders, suicidality, and medication, experienced youth mental health experts, host each session.
For more info, visit https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/ groups/parent-drop-in-soquel-ca/247794
DATED EVENTS
Thursday October 3
TUTOR TRAINING
10 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Scotts Valley Water District, Santa Margarita Room, 2 Civic Center Dr.
Do you know someone who would like to become a tutor?
The Volunteer Center Literacy Project offers training at the Scotts Valley Water District.
To enroll, sign up for a brief orientation at https://scvolunteercenter.org/programs/literacy-program/join/
Saturday October 5
50 YEARS OF FIERCE CARE
6-10 p.m., 6-10 p.m., Hotel Paradox, 611 Ocean St., Santa Cruz Santa Cruz Community Health is celebrating its 50th anniversary of providing high-quality, affordable, and comprehensive health services to the community with a fundraising event at Hotel Paradox. Speakers are:
• Diana Greene Foster, PhD, a demographer, professor at UC San Francisco and author of “The Turnaway Study: Ten Years, A Thousand Women and the Consequences of Having – or Being Denied – an Abortion”
• Judith A. Houck , Department Chair and Professor of Gender & Women’s Studies, and History at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and author of “Looking Through the Speculum: Feminist Health, 1969-2010”
Since founding, organizers have remained committed to health care as a human right and have continuously worked to advocate for social, political, and economic equality.
This milestone event will celebrate achievements, and look forward to a future of continued service and advocacy. Tickets are $150 at https://www.schealthcenters.org/50thanniversary-celebration/
CENTRAL COAST GOOD FIRE FAIR
10 a.m. – 3 p.m., Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, Felton Fire Advisor Barb Satink Wolfson announces the first Central Coast Good Fire Fair at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park.
There will be food trucks (Pana and S&B –Sandwiches & Burgers), booths and educational demonstrations.
Test your fire knowledge and win door prizes!
Highlights:
Welcome – 10 a.m.: Opening ceremony sharing the goals and vision of the Central Coast Good Fire Fair.
Fire Ecology and Hose Lay Races – 10:30 a.m.:
• Main Stage — A presentation on fire ecology and fire-adapted ecosystems by UC Cooperative Extension Fire Advisor Barb Satink Wolfson.
• Main Parking Lot — Interactive hose lay races hosted by the Bonny Doon Fire Department.
Live Fire Demonstrations — 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Demonstrations of controlled burns, including burning needles in redwood forest and showing effects of fire on different terrains, led by experts from State Parks (all burning depends on suitable conditions).
Cultural Fire Presentation — 1 p.m.: Traditional use of fire in land management practices with Alice Lincoln-Cook from the California Indian Basket Weavers Association.
Spanish Presentation — 2 p.m.: Alex Michel from the Central Coast Prescribed Burn Association. CCGFF will offer
FOOD AS MEDICINE – SANTA CRUZ
Sunday October 20
8 a.m. – 6 p.m., Hotel Paradox, 611 Ocean St., Santa Cruz
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Food As Medicine is an in-person (and virtual) conference bringing together healthcare professionals, researchers, and experts to delve into the transformative power of plant-based diets, will take place.
Organizer Wendy Gabbe Day says attendees will explore the latest scientific findings on plant-based nutrition, the effects of diet on chronic disease prevention and control, and how to design an optimum plant-based diet for patients and clients in a clinical setting.
Presenters are healthcare providers who are experts in the use of food as a tool for healing. Speakers include Dr. Michael Klaper, Dr. Columbus Batiste, and many others.
The event includes networking, a resource fair, a whole food plant-based lunch, and a culinary medicine demonstration. Lunch and snacks will be low in salt, and free of added sugars and oil
This conference is designed for healthcare professionals, but others with strong interests in nutrition and health are welcome to attend. Adventist Health Ukiah Valley designates this live activity for a maximum of 7.25 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s).
The Commission on Dietetic Registration has approved 7.25 CPEU hours for dietitians. The fee is $249; for students, $99. Register at: foodasmedicinesantacruz.org.
Spanish translations for the hose relay, understory burning demonstration, and build-your-own campfire demo.
Kid Zone — All Day: Activities like a treasure hunt and quizzes, to learn about fire safety.
This is a public event and State Parks vehicle parking fees of $10 will apply unless you walk or bike.
Sunday October 6
BLUE INNOVATION 2024
11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Seymour Marine Discovery Center, 100 McAllister Way, Santa Cruz Blue Innovation Day comes to the UC Santa Cruz Seymour Marine Discovery Center, Santa Cruz.
Enjoy a day filled with exhibits, hands-on activities, food trucks, live bands, and tours. Discover cutting-edge technologies and solutions for ocean and water sustainability.
Fun for all ages! https://seymourcenter.ucsc.edu
ITAMAR ZORMAN & ALON GOLDSTEIN INCONCERT
4 p.m., Peace United Church, 900 High St., Santa Cruz
The Distinguished Artists Concert Foundation presents its 39th season beginning with violinist Itamar Zorman and pianist Alon Goldstein at 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 6, at Peace United Church, 900 High St., Santa Cruz.
The program includes pieces from Back, Partita, Ravel and selections from West Side Story by Bernstein.
Alon Goldstein is one of the most original and sensitive artists of his generation, admired for his musical intelligence and dynamic personality.
Itamar Zorman won the Borletti-Buitoni Trust Award for 2014, the 2013 Avery Fisher Career Grant, and the 2011 International Tchaikovsky Competition in Russia.
Alon Goldstein is one of the most original and sensitive artists of his generation, admired for his musical intelligence and dynamic personality. His artistic vision and innovative programming have made him a favorite with audiences and critics alike throughout the United States, Europe, and Israel.
This season he performs in Philadelphia, Washington, DC, Vienna, Berlin, and Milano.
Itamar Zorman won the Borletti-Buitoni Trust Award for
Hermon Conference Center, a tranquil place for reflection and growth.
The theme is “Cultivating Renewal, Resilience and Empowerment.”
Speakers
Lauren Seaver, KSBW news anchor
Margaret “Magi” Graziano, best-selling author
Haley Sage, professional grief coach
Karen Gosling, occupational, physical and speech therapist
Keisha Browder, CEO, United Way of Santa Cruz County
MariaElena De La Garza, CEO, Community Action Board
Annie Morhauser, Founder, lead designer, Annieglass
Cathy Conway, CEO of Hospice of Santa Cruz County, will lead a mindfulness session.
“We are thrilled to bring together inspiring speakers and an engaging panel of women leaders to guide us on a journey to foster health and well-being,” said Summit Chair Chris Maffia. “We recognize the importance of being able to come together and explore ways we can be empowered both personally and professionally.”
There will be networking, breakout sessions, and mindfulness activities.
Tickets are $150 at https://web.santacruzchamber.org/events/ Women-s-Leadership-Summit-6399/details
Friday October 25
2014, the 2013 Avery Fisher Career Grant, and the 2011 International Tchaikovsky Competition in Russia. He is currently a visiting guest artist at the Eastman School of Music. He plays a 1734 Guarneri Del Gesù violin from the collection of Yehuda Zisapel. Tickets are $40 online at http://www.distinguishedartists.org/ or pay what you can at the door.
Thursday, Oct. 10
WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY
World Mental Health Day is a perfect opportunity to pause and take stock of your mental wellbeing before the holiday season traps you in a vicious cycle of stress and anxiety.
Think about what you are eating: Does it come from a box? Or do you eat whole foods?
Does this food contain pesticides? Or is it organic?
Fruits and veggies will have a number code that start with a 9 for organic, no pesticides, and 4 for conventional, which means synthetic pesticides and fertilizers were used.
Whenever possible, choose the most nutrient-dense foods. For information on testing of food for chemicals, see www. mamavation.com
JOB FAIR
4–6 p.m., Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk’s Cocoanut Grove, 400 Beach St.
Join us for Santa Cruz County’s largest job fair, presented by Access2Employment.
There will be:
• Entry-level or mid-level positions for recent graduates & young professionals
• High-level careers for applicants with leadership & experience
• Internships & volunteer opportunities for students
Last year, more than 1,000 people participated. Admission is free for job-seekers.
Employers can register at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/job-fair2024-tickets-896843311487
Thursday October 17
SECOND WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP SUMMIT: HEALTH AND WELLNESS
9:30 a.m.–3:45 p.m. at Mount Hermon Conference Center, 37 Conference Drive
The Santa Cruz Chamber of Commerce announces its 2nd annual Women’s Leadership Summit at Mount
MOUNTAIN AFFAIR
5-9 p.m., Highlands Park Senior & Community Center, 8500 Hwy 9, Ben Lomond
The 39th annual Mountain Affair will take place at Highlands Park Senior & Community Center, benefiting Mountain Community Resources. This festive annual dinner features fine cuisine, local wines, live music, and silent auction showcasing Valley businesses.
The chef is Angela Blessing is known for her Farm-to-Table approach, combining fresh, local ingredients with vibrant, creative flavors. Her beautifully presented dishes cater to all dietary preferences, including Paleo, Gluten-Free, Vegan, and Vegetarian options—ensuring a delightful culinary experience.
All proceeds help Mountain Community Resources to build a warm, friendly, safe place for more than 1,000 Valley residents to meet basic needs and build strength and hope for the future. These essential services include emergency preparedness, disaster recovery, community resources and crisis support.
Tickets are $125 at https://communitybridges.org/events/
Friday November 8
2024
STATE OF THE REGION
9 a.m.–5 p.m., CSU Monterey Bay University Center, 4314 6th Ave., Seaside
Monterey Bay Economic Partnership presents the 2024 Annual State of the Region event at the CSU Monterey Bay University Center.
This year’s event will feature topics aimed at driving regional economic recovery and development, exploring strategies for ensuring good jobs, housing for all, reducing the digital divide, and examining the impact of local, state, and federal policies and legislation on our region.
Speakers have yet to be announced.
Tickets are $149 through Oct. 18 at https://www. eventbrite.com/e/2024-state-of-the-region-registration978827558577 n
Magi Graziano
Angela Blessing
Photos (from left): Drs. Columbus Batiste, Elise Atkins, Maria Jose Hummel, MIchael Klaper, Rak Jotwani
Itamar Zorman
District 5: County Supervisor Candidate Forum
By Jondi Gumz
About 150 people showed up to hear Christopher Bradford, IT systems administrator at Joby Aviation, and Monica Martinez, CEO of Encompass, the largest nonprofit in Santa Cruz County, answer questions at a Sept. 18 forum hosted by Lookout Santa Cruz at Felton Community Hall.
Bradford and Martinez are running for county supervisor in the 5th District to succeed Bruce McPherson after for 12 years.
Forum moderator Christopher Neeley allowed rebuttals.
These are not exact quotes but paraphrases due to space limits.
Your position on the Service Employees International Union, the county’s largest union, 1,800 people, prepared to go on strike?
Bradford: I support your efforts to get a fair contract. The supervisors have a duty to all of us to not agree to things that will impoverish the county. Sometimes you can go halfway, sometimes only one-quarter.
Martinez: SEIU endorsed me. I’m transparente. We built a record of trust. I stand with labor.
Bradford rebuttal: The union endorsement is a problem, not a benefit.
Where will you find money for storm repairs to roads?
Bradford: I will look for opportunities for infrastructure. We lost half our budget for road repairs and FEMA money isn’t coming any time soon.
Martinez: I would look for ways to grow. In mental health, when the governor made money available, I applied and I dragged
“Scotts Valley Drive” from page 16
Many members of the public provided input, according to city staffer Jordan Taylor. Their perspectives varied based on their experiences driving, biking and walking on Scotts Valley Drive.
With the Council’s direction, Public Works staff and consultants will begin design work and prepare for public engagement as the design takes shape.
Key components of the proposed improvements may include:
Sen. John Laird out to our site and I got $9.5 million.
Bradford rebuttal: We can control what we spend like we do at home.
Martinez rebuttal: When state bonds made money for mental health available, I learned our county was not going to apply. So my organization applied.
The Grand Jury reports 63% of county roads poor, with a $1 billion backlog of work under current county policy. Your thoughts.
Martinez: Look at the Mountain Charlie Road washout (which stranded residents) this year -- 100% of road funds are going to Mountain Charlie Road. The county should strike a balance between emergency repairs and proactive fixes.
Bradford: The county didn’t listen. The road got worse by being ignored.
What is most important in the county budget?
Bradford: First, look at need vs. want. Roads, infrastructure and water are essential.
Martinez: There are so many important departments, the sheriff, probation, mental health.
Bradford rebuttal: We have to be willing to make the hard choices. We have to be realistic.
So many people have given up on rebuilding homes burned in the CZU fire, how much is the county to blame?
Martinez: The current response is completely inexcusable … I need to see a report on every parcel, how many sold, how many left the county. There’s been no after-report, no lessons learned.
• Pavement Restoration: To enhance the roadway’s longevity.
• Bike/Pedestrian Improvements: Upgrading bike lanes, which may include buffered or separated options, and ensuring sidewalks meet current ADA standards for those with disabilities.
• Safety Enhancements: Better crosswalks and signals at intersections to improve safety for cyclists and pedestrians.
• Aesthetic Upgrades: Street beautification features to improve the overall look and feel of the corridor.
Bradford: A large measure of blame is on the county. People were told they could rebuild what they had, instead they were required to meet new regulations. We had discretion on permits. We didn’t use it.
Martinez rebuttal: I would advocate with the state why regulations aren’t working.
Bradford rebuttal: We paid the mortgage every month living in a tent. We should rebuild every home we reasonably can and help those who can’t.
Martinez rebuttal: We need a dashboard of where we are in rebuilding and what barriers we face.
Shaking up the status quo, what does that mean to you?
Bradford: For years, our county lagged on building. We didn’t want to be San Jose and now only people who work in San Jose can afford to live here. People are pushing back, I’m a part of that.
Martinez: I heard the 5th District wants change. You’re going to get it. I’m known as somebody who’s looking for new solutions.
Your thoughts on the pump track the county proposed to replace the volleyball area at Covered Bridge County Park.
Bradford: I would have talked to the neighbors first. Let’s see if people want this. Listen, gather data, make a better decision.
Martinez, who represents the 5th District on the county parks commission: My
Funding comes from a combination of grants and local measures, including a $500,000 Consolidated Program Grant from the Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission, as well as Measure D and SB1 funds.
Further funding may be sought based on the selected improvements.
Next steps will include more opportunities for the community to respond during the design process.
City staff say they value and appreciate the contributions from community members
job as a commissioner is to listen to folks, mitigate the issues that are possible, and advise on the best path forward. I did that effectively.
The supervisor’s salary is about $150,000. How will you relate to people in the 5th District?
Bradford: Well, $150,000 is not what it used to be. I have six children. I’m still living paycheck to paycheck. Because of county decisions, my rebuild cost me an extra $300,000.
Martinez: I answer calls when seniors don’t know where they’ll get health care. I’ve lost employees due to the cost of living.
Your thoughts on people losing home insurance or seeing rate hikes. Bradford: The insurance commissioner wants to increase rates 5% in high-risk areas. We don’t have enough insurers in the market. Martinez: Insurers want to see home hardening and defensible space. I would advocate with the commissioner. n
and encourage everyone to continue participating in this important project. They say your feedback is vital in shaping the final design to ensure it meets the needs of all residents and visitors. n •••
To watch the full presentation and feedback session from the Sept. 18 City Council meeting see https://www.youtube.com/live/ CCCGjeh2H-o?t=3530s
Review the staff report and presentation slides at https://scottsvalleyca.portal.civicclerk. com/event/676/files/attachment/867
... because it matters to you!
Monica Martinez and Christopher Bradford
SCCAS Featured Pet
Homecoming Queen
This week our Pet of the weeks is (potential) Homecoming Queen — Mara (A#313635)!
Mara came to the Shelter as a stray nursing her kittens. When she first arrived, she was sweet right away with staff – leaning in for pets as well as chin and neck scritches. Clinic staff monitored Mara for a bit as they noted she had a small amount of foreign/hard material in her intestines which was removed at the time of spay.
She also has a big belly and sometimes has a slightly hunched posture when she walks. We performed bloodwork and x-rays to check for injuries, liver and kidney issues, and a condition called “megacolon” and did not find any concerning abnormalities – just a little more belly fat and gas than your average kitty. She did arrive at the shelter with a significant wound to her right thigh and while this has healed well, it may be contributing to her somewhat abnormal gait.
She does not have any gastrointestinal signs (constipation, vomiting, diarrhea, not wanting to eat) at this time, but the adopter should see their veterinarian if any of these signs or a limp or new/worsening abnormal gait develop in the future.
Cleared from her special medical observation and care at the Shelter, she is now ready for an adoptive home. We do not have any history of Mara with other animals. A home with others may be a fit after a slow and thoughtful acclimation period. Mara has lived outdoors previously and may enjoy a home where she has indoor outdoor access after a period of acclimation.
Our clinic volunteer Sequoia nominated Mara as Homecoming Queen of the cat room! She says “Mara is the quirky queen you didn’t know you were looking for! She has so much love to give and that occasionally overwhelms her. Sometimes she wants to curl up and relax and other times she wants to tell you all about her day. Either was, she will love you unconditionally. With a loud purr and soft fur, she’s got it all!”
The Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter is full of adoptable animals. Fostering animals is an awesome way to improve a Shelter animal’s life and fill your home with love and fun! If you are interested in fostering any kind of animal please email jillian.ganley@santacruzcounty.us. You can also Follow SCCAS on Instagram and/or Facebook to stay up-to-date on shelter news and where to find adoptable pets around town at breweries, stores and events. All adoptions are first come, first served.
Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter’s full-service, open-admission shelter 1001 Rodriguez St., Santa Cruz, 95062 • Hours: Daily 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. 580 Airport Blvd., Watsonville, 95076 • Hours: Tues.-Sat. 9:30 a.m. – noon; 1–5 p.m. (Closed Sun/Mon) Website: www.scanimalshelter.org
SCCAS Main line: 831-454-7200. Animal Control: 831-454-7227. After-Hours Emergency: 831-471-1182 • After Hours: jillian.ganley@santacruzcounty.us
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